Concordat to Support the Career Development of Researchers

The UK Concordat to Support the Career Development of Researchers is an agreement between funders and employers of research staff to improve the employment and support for researchers and research careers in UK higher education. It sets out clear standards that research staff can expect from the institution that employs them, as well as their responsibilities as researchers.

Vitae leads on the management and implementation of the Concordat. The Concordat Strategy Group oversees strategy and implementation.

“Despite being a voluntary instrument, the Concordat is having a significant impact across the higher education sector. The intention to implement the principles of the Concordat is now widespread in institutions, and the corresponding infrastructure is increasingly in place.” Three year review of the Implementation on the Concordat, 2012

New CROS and PIRLS Report: Five Steps Forward

Five Steps Forward launched at the Vitae Researcher Development Conference 2017, based on successive Careers in Research Online Surveys (CROS) and Principal Investigators & Research Leaders Surveys (PIRLS)

The Concordat Strategy Group has announced an independent review of the Concordat. It was launched in 2008 and the Review Panel will evaluate:
- the progress in implementing the principles
- whether it remains fit for purpose
- what policy interventions are required to ensure an effective research system.

HR Excellence in Research Award

UK institutions that have published Concordat implementation plans are able to apply for the European HR Excellence in Research Award. Vitae manages the UK process, which includes ongoing national evaluation and benchmarking.